Northern Cardinal Crochet Amigurumi Pattern PDF – Realistic Red Bird Plush Tutorial

Create your own striking Northern Cardinal with this detailed crochet amigurumi pattern PDF. Designed for crafters who love lifelike birds, this downloadable, printable tutorial walks you through every step to make a realistic male cardinal with its signature all-red plumage and bold black mask. Please note: this listing is for a digital crochet pattern only, not a finished toy.

Inside, you’ll find a clear, photo-supported pattern written in English using standard US crochet abbreviations. The finished cardinal measures approximately 5 inches tall from the bottom of the feet to the top of the head (not including the crest), making it a perfect shelf display, nature-inspired gift, or charming addition to a woodland nursery. The body and crest are worked in the round, with some pieces made in rows for accurate shaping. Wings and beak are sewn on for a polished, realistic finish, and optional wired legs provide a sturdy, perch-ready stance.

Skill level: intermediate. While the stitches are standard, they are occasionally used in creative ways to achieve the bird’s unique contours. If you’re comfortable with increases, decreases, sewing pieces together, and following step-by-step photos, you’ll enjoy bringing this project to life.

What’s included:

- 15-page PDF with detailed, easy-to-follow instructions

- Step-by-step photos for each major section

- Tips for shaping, assembly, and neat finishing

Materials you’ll need:

- 5 mm crochet hook

- Worsted weight yarn: red, black, and orange

- Two 8 mm black safety eyes

- Yarn needle for sewing

- Stuffing (Poly-Fil)

- Optional legs (omit for a toy): 22-gauge jewelry wire, brown worsted yarn, or black wire with hot glue

Why you’ll love it:

- Realistic results with accessible techniques

- Perfect weekend project for bird lovers and amigurumi fans

- Makes a thoughtful handmade gift and a standout decor piece

Fun fact: The Northern Cardinal is the state bird of Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia—more states than any other bird! Bring a touch of that classic backyard beauty to your home with this satisfying, nature-inspired make.

© Sara Schlemmer, Camp Crochet. All rights reserved. For personal use only; do not distribute, sell, or share the pattern.